Retama Park opened in 1995 and has never made money. The track’s owner, Retama Development Corp., a municipal subdivision of Selma, filed for bankruptcy in 1996. It emerged from bankruptcy a year later, shedding some of its debt.

Todd Eilers, a securities analyst who follows the gaming industry, views the deal as a “defensive move” for Pinnacle. It has three Louisiana casinos that draw Texas gamblers, so those properties could be hurt if Texas ever adds gaming.

“This should help soften the blow” if Texas gets gaming, said Eilers, a senior research analyst with Roth Capital Partners LLC in Newport Beach, Calif. He added, “I doubt (Pinnacle) would be lobbying all that hard for casinos in the state.”

State lawmakers would have to be persuaded to let voters decide whether to allow gaming at Texas racetracks or elsewhere.

Track officials previously have said they wanted to bring in a financial partner to fund the track’s losses while they pushed for legalized gaming at state racetracks.

So, I ask Texas State Representatives are you going to stand with an “Establishment Republican” known for making deals; whose family stands to gain millions if gambling is passed in Texas or are you going to stand with the most Conservative candidate in the race for speaker who is known for standing up for what is right for Texas not what is right for his own personal gain.

Here is a little reminder of the corruption in Texas politics that Grassroots/Tea Party activists have been standing up against.

If you are ready to take a stand call your State Representative today Here is a list of them. Tell them to vote for the most Conservative Candidate in the Race for Speaker; Bryan Hughes and then join us in Austin Jan. 7th and 8th.